Answer: by Larry Siegel: (07/12/2004)
Thanks for taking the time to write in and please accept my apologies for not getting back to you sooner. I sincerely hope that, by this time, you and your girlfriend would have seen a doctor or family planning professional for emergency contraception (there is a 3 day window to be able to use it). There is certainly a chance that she could get pregnant the way you describe; perhaps not a terribly high probability, but a chance nonetheless. Even before a guy ejaculates, he releases a fluid (pre-cum) that is meant to "clear the way" for the semen. In that fluid, there is often sperm. It's not a lot, but there is a slight chance that there is enough to be able to get her pregnant (especially if you have really good swimmers!).
Using a condom effectively involves more than just putting it on. It's possible that you're not leaving enough room at the tip and the head of your penis is tearing through. Most commonly, condoms do break when there is not enough lubrication. Even when a woman gets very wet initially, after a while she may not be as wet and need some additionl lubrication. That's where things like water-based lubes come in handy. Please also remember that you can change positions, even activities (ie, pull out and orally stimulate her clitoris) and that can often help re-stimulate her lubrication. Intercourse is not the only way to sexually pleasure each other. In fact, most women do not get as aroused by penetration as they do by other means, so keep in mind that you should have several "tricks" in your pleasure bag.
Another possibility, if you tend to break condoms often and you are doing everything correctly, is to try using condoms made for larger penises. There is a brand called Magnum that you can try. My guess, however, is that it has more to do with how you're putting it on and the degree of vaginal wetness after prolonged pebetration.
I hope this was of some help to you. I also hope that everything is ok with your girlfriend and that you use this experience as a good lesson to be more aware of all the responsibilities of a sexual relationship. Feel free to write in again should you have any other questions or concerns. Take care and be well.
Larry SiegelReviewed by Sexual Health Editorial Team
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